Sao Bronze Standing Figure

Small enough for the palm. Strong enough to stand for something.

Miniature castings like this were made across West Africa, often kept close as personal objects or carried as charms. This bronze standing figure, from Chad, 20th century, is about five and a quarter inches tall. The form is pared to essentials: a domed, beak-like head, a rounded torso with arms held tight to the sides, short sturdy legs. The surface is a mottled blend of green and grey corrosion, with a warm russet patch at the hip.

The rough texture suggests long handling. Whoever held it last, it is yours to wonder about.